While the idea of capping rates might seem like a great idea at first glance, the impact it could have on services probably hasn’t been fully considered by residents. 

A report to be delivered to councillors makes it clear that there would need to be drastic cuts to services and infrastructure projects across the city if rate rises were to be brought into line with the Consumer Price Index.

Labor has already unveiled a plan to monitor any rate rises if it wins the election in November.

Any rises above the CPI would result in that rise being assessed by the Essential Services Commission.

While residents might rejoice at the thought of a cheaper rates bill, they might not be as pleased to learn of cuts that might need to be made. 

However, the question needs to be asked: what we are willing to give up if this is to be a real policy to tackle the ever-growing cost-of-living problem?

There is no doubt some councils could use some closer attention on rate rises, but are we willing to lose services as a result?

Amid the election promises of new roads and buildings, arguably the biggest issue facing residents might just be the rising cost of living. 

With power and gas bills soaring, one local candidate hit the streets with her idea to put a cap on price rises for utilities. While getting involved with controlling private companies might not be an option, the more innovative ideas we have to challenge what some are calling a ‘crisis’, the better. 

As bills soar and unemployment climbs, these need to be the

issues at the forefront of everyone’s mind.